In Fullmetal Alchemist episode 4, “A Forger’s Love” (or “An Alchemist’s Anuish”), Edward and Alphonse Elric arrive in a city called Xenotime, known for its iron and steel production. They are there to investigate rumors of a skilled alchemist named Majhal who is said to have created the Philosopher’s Stone.
When the brothers investigate, they discover that Majhal is a former state alchemist who left the military and now lives on the outskirts of town. Majhal is also known as the “Hero of Ishval” for his actions during the Ishval Civil War, but carries immense guilt for his part in the war’s atrocities.
Majhal’s daughter Julia reveals that her father worked to create the Philosopher’s Stone to alleviate the suffering caused by his acts of war. However, he does not know that the Philosopher’s Stones are created through human sacrifices.
Edward and Alphonse eventually confront Majhal and learn the truth about his experiments. Majhal’s desire to atone for the wrongs he had committed during the war led him to use his alchemical powers to attempt to create a stone that could heal without causing harm.
Unfortunately, Majhal’s efforts are in vain as he unknowingly uses his own daughter Julia’s life energy in his attempts. When Edward and Alphonse find out, they step in to stop Majhal, and the brothers once again face the harsh reality of human transmutation and the pursuit of forbidden alchemical knowledge.
The episode “A Forger’s Love” explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the ethical boundaries of alchemy. It shows how individuals come to terms with their past mistakes and seek forgiveness, even in a world where alchemical powers can have devastating consequences.